There is a definite relationship between sleep and epilepsy.

Sometimes sleep activates the electrical activity in the brain that can cause seizures and for many, seizures happen at specific times during the sleep-wake cycle.

Then there are some types of epilepsy where seizures occur only during sleep.

When seizures happen during sleep, they cause awakenings that are sometimes confused with various sleep disorders. People with epilepsy are not often aware of seizures that happen during sleep and may suffer for years from daytime sleepiness and concentration problems without knowing exactly why.

The problem with sleep

For people with epilepsy, sleep problems are a double-edged sword;

Seizures can disturb sleep and sleep deprivation can cause seizures.

A seizure during sleep affects sleep patterns for the rest of the night. Sleep becomes lighter with more frequent awakenings.

The biggest effects are on REM sleep (dreaming sleep). It is reduced and sometimes stops completely by even a brief seizure early in the night. REM sleep is an important part of the complete sleep cycle

Daytime seizures can also lessen REM sleep the following night, but the effect is weaker.

So if someone has regular seizures, particularly during sleep, this will greatly affect their functioning during the day.

On the other hand, not enough sleep or any problems that disturb sleep can trigger a seizure. In fact, some people suffer their first or only seizure in life after exam time!

It is also important to bear in mind that lack of sleep is often caused by factors such as alcohol, stress or illness which can all increase the risk of seizures.

This is why it is so important to have a good night’s sleep on a regular basis if you have epilepsy.

How much sleep should someone with epilepsy get?

Most adults need approximately 7-8 hours

Healthy teenagers should have at least 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep a night, most have about 9-11 hours sleep.

But a simple definition of a good night’s sleep is one that leaves you feeling refreshed the next day.

It is not only the quantity, but the quality, of sleep that matters.

Anyone who has problems with daytime drowsiness or difficulties with memory and concentration, even when they seem to be spending enough hours sleeping, may need a change of medication or a sleep assessment.

What about epilepsy medications? Do they affect sleep?

Medications used to treat epilepsy may also affect sleep. It really depends on the medication, as they all act differently.

Definitioner

REM sleep

Rapid Eye Movement. A stage in the normal sleep cycle during which dreams occur and the body undergoes changes including Rapid Eye Movement, muscle relaxation, and increased breathing and heart rate and brain activity.

insomnia

Chronic inability to fall asleep or remain asleep for a sufficient length of time.

biological

Relating to living organisms, toxins or disease.

Stimulant

A substance that raises levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body.

medication

A substance used to treat disease, injury or pain.

Seizure

A seizure is a disruption in the normal pattern of electrical impulses in the brain. This can cause changes in sensation, awareness, and behaviour, or sometimes convulsions, muscle spasms or loss of consciousness, depending on where the seizure starts and spreads in the brain.

Neurologist

A specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders, including epilepsy. Paediatric Neurologists see children.

Epilepsy

A disease of the brain that is characterised by a tendency to have recurrent, usually unprovoked seizures. The seizures are a result of sudden abnormal electrical activity in the brain. The type of seizure will depend on where it starts and spreads within the brain.